Brendan Schwalm
Denver,CO
Summary
Technical professional with over 10 years of experience in regulated environments, specializing in extraction and cultivation processes. Proven ability to troubleshoot complex systems, optimize processes for quality and efficiency, and maintain strict safety standards. Strong attention to detail and collaborative mindset with a history of working effectively in team-oriented settings. Motivated to apply diverse technical skills and adaptability to transition into a new STEM field and contribute to innovative projects.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Cultivation Technician
The Cannabist Company
Denver, CO
04.2024 - Current
- Pruned and trained plants to maximize yield and promote healthy growth in a large-scale industrial environment.
- Monitored and optimized nutrient delivery and environmental conditions, including humidity, temperature, and lighting, to achieve consistent high-quality crops.
- Diagnosed and resolved issues related to irrigation systems, pest management, plant health, and lighting to maintain optimal production conditions.
- Collaborated with the cultivation team to implement best practices and maintain compliance with industry standards.
Extraction Technician
Dank Meltz
Kalamazoo, MI
11.2021 - 05.2023
- Operated a large-scale commercial 75-gallon ice water agitation system (Osprey washer) to separate cannabis trichomes using precise agitation and temperature control.
- Managed multi-stage filtration by processing product water through a series of six filter bags with different micron sizes to achieve optimal separation.
- Employed freeze-drying techniques to remove moisture from collected trichomes, ensuring product stability and quality.
- Conducted fine sifting to convert dried material into uniform dust for further processing.
- Used a heated hydraulic press to convert sifted trichomes into rosin, applying controlled heat and pressure for high-quality solventless concentrates.
Extraction Lab Senior Technition
Cresco Labs
Marshall, MI
08.2017 - 10.2021
- Operated and maintained a closed-loop extraction system to produce high-quality botanical concentrates, working with complex liquid hydrocarbon solvents.
- Performed troubleshooting and maintenance on extraction equipment and recovery pumps to ensure consistent and safe operation.
- Adhered to rigorous safety protocols in a Class 1 Division 1 (C1D1) lab environment, maintaining compliance with hazardous area standards to protect personnel and processes.
- Managed precise temperature control and product quality through the use of recirculating chillers, vacuum ovens, centrifuges, and short path distillation equipment.
- Utilized filtration and remediation columns to enhance product purity and worked collaboratively to meet production and quality targets.
- Mentored junior technicians, providing guidance on best practices to enhance their skills and knowledge base.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Chemical Engineering
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, MISkills
- Leadership qualities
- Plant cultivation expertise
- Quality control measures
- Continuous learning mindset
- Hazardous materials handling
- Troubleshooting skills
- Performance optimization
- Attention to detail
Timeline
Cultivation Technician
The Cannabist Company
04.2024 - Current
Extraction Technician
Dank Meltz
11.2021 - 05.2023
Extraction Lab Senior Technition
Cresco Labs
08.2017 - 10.2021
Bachelor of Science - Chemical Engineering
Western Michigan University